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The Visual Impairment Team in the Sensory Support Service team supports children and young people who have a visual impairment.

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The Visual Impairment Team in the Sensory Support Service team supports children and young people who have a visual impairment.

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Sensory Support Service - Vision Impairment - Living Well Warrington

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The Visual Impairment Team in the Sensory Support Service team supports children and young people who have a visual impairment. A child/young person can be

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Support for disabled children and young people - Sense

Their support helps children who are deafblind or who have complex disabilities access education, playgroups and holidays, so they have the same life experiences as everyone else.

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Information on downloading and using the EasyReader app to access RNIB Bookshare online.

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Nursery rhyme songbook

A collection of nursery rhyme classics for children with a vision impairment to move and groove too. Nursery rhyme songbook | Guide Dogs

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Learning through play | Guide Dogs

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Please ask your QTVI for specific advice

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Information on accessing books via RNIB Bookshare

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The Marvin Story Time Show was established by Gwyn McCormack, founder of Positive Eye in March 2020 to support families during COVID. It has been a resounding success and the outcomes from this fun, vibrant, family show have been immense to the extent now that the show goes live to over 200 families on a weekly basis for families of children who are deafblind with additional complex needs in America. The show currently reaches 22 States and many families and children and their siblings enjoy and benefit from this experience greatly. The outcomes have been phenomenal so far.

Gwyn the story teller in action on the show

The Idea Machine Story Time Shows focus on offering an inclusive multi-sensory fun enjoyable approach to story time that is welcoming of the whole family. In particular it is very suitable and has reached the best outcomes for children with complex needs.

Gwyn-Gwyn-Gwynnie-Gwyn the story teller and creator of the Marvin Story Time Shows, Marvin's adventures and all the fun sparkly characters that are designed and created inhouse uses a noisy, colourful, interactive, engaging approach to capture the children's attention. They LOVE THE SHOW and so do their parents!
Live clip of the Story Time Show
Gwyn-Gwyn-Gwynnie-Gwyn-Gwyn uses cheerleader pompoms and lots of energy and enthusiasm to engage with the children through the screen. They LOVE IT!

Gwyn-Gwyn-Gwynnie-Gwyn-Gwyn chats with Marvin and we wave to the children

Gwyn-Gwyn-Gwynnie-Gwyn-Gwyn tells the stories of Marvin's adventures every week. A new character is introduced as each chapter is told on each show.

Gwyn-Gwyn-Gwynnie-Gwyn-Gwyn wears big hats and designs all the characters and makes them!
The Story Time Show! I write my own adventures of Marvin and bring them to life with him using colourful, engaging, colourful characters that we design and make at Positive Eye
We have our own songs, written by my son Tom - Maestro Tommity-Tom and I use funny voices for the characters, the children LOVE IT!

There is lots of repetition, colour, high contrast, fun, high energy and enthusiasm are just some of the ingredients to create a multi-sensory approach to story time that reaches right out to ALL children and importantly also their parents.

I make an activity or a craft to go with the story chapter I am performing at each show. Then the families have fun making the craft during the week before the next show. It is always something related to chapter, to one of the fun characters usually.
Positive Outcomes achieved from the Idea Machine Story Time Show
Children who are non-verbal are engaging, shouting out, interacting during the show

Increased engagement, concentration, communication

Structured approach to literacy inclusive of the whole family

Touches on all the literacy access skills for children, tactile, fine motor, language, book and story, concept development etc.

Adventures are linked to everyday experiences
Accessing the show
The show can be bought as a Story Time Show package to be watched online once per week. It is ideal for schools, charities and organisations that support families of children with special needs. It is based in sound educational practice but with a huge fun element.

Here I explain a little more about the show

Please contact us to discuss further if you are interested in the show for the school or organisation you work for.
Out and about meeting the children
Last summer I met some of the children who watch the show, it was really so exciting to meet them.

Here I am out and about meeting the super stars from the show and performing the show in their gardens

Here is what some of the parents have said:
From Rochelle, parent of Zachariah
Quite emotional watching the last story from ast 5 months! Zachariah has loved being part of the Rainbow children community and developed a great relationship with the beautiful Positive Eye for Summer! This story is a special one at that, as it features all of the regular children from the l Gwyneth McCormack. On top of this, he's developed in so many ways, his concentration, engagement, reaction and communication skills have blossomed more than I could ever imagine,especially in such a short time.

What Gwyn has done during such a scary time, is just magical, she's scooped up so many families and given them something to smile about, and look forward to. Gwyn has supported families, engaged with them and offered her time, knowledge and love by the bucket load!

Without Gwyn, shielding at home would have been so much harder, with the majority of Zachariah's regular support network taken away, back in March, we would have struggled so much more, without the Rainbow (as she has been described ) that is Gwyn, being in our lives.
From Leah who has watched the show from the start with her son Oliver!
Today was one to remember! We met the wonderful lady we have been watching on the tele throughout COVID for the first time ever today!

Gwyn came to drop a special delivery off for us and came to meet Oliver she brought all of her zoo characters with her to show us and sat at a distance. It was truly wonderful it felt like she just wrapped us in a warm hug!

Gwyn has just created a new story for the rainbow children's zoo, each child who watches her show got to pick their own animal and choose a name. We picked a monkey & his name is Buddy the funky monkey! And he likes to rave, rave, rave!! The beautiful Gwyn and her lovely husband have created each character - they are amazing. Meeting Gwyn today was so lovely and exactly what we needed I haven't stopped smiling all day! She is so lovely and funny.

We love the Positive Eye Idea Machine!
Oliver's teacher and our close friend recommended us to come along and join in the fun and so glad they did

Some days have been hard during isolation, very repetitive and running out of ideas to do.
We look forward to the shows and the crafts at the end it gives us something exciting to do which is fun.

Presentation at the World Congress on SEN about the impact of the Story Time Show on literacy outcomes for children with complex learning needs

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activities during covid-19 for families with SEND learners

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The Marvin Story Time Show was established by Gwyn McCormack, founder of Positive Eye in March 2020 to support families during COVID. It has been a resounding success and the outcomes from this fun, vibrant, family show have been immense to the extent now that the show goes live to over 200 families on a weekly basis for families of children who are deafblind with additional complex needs in America.

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Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (CFVI)

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Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (CFVI)

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A guide for Parent's and carers

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Little Amber is a scheme that supports families to engage in musical activities and games with their blind or partially sighted child in the early years.

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Little Amber was setup to give practical help to parents of blind babies.
We have specially designed 48 fun and colourful activity cards to help you engage with your child.

Choose a level to get started

Try a random card Getting started?

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Little Amber was setup to give practical help to parents of blind babies.We have specially designed 48 fun and colourful activity cards to help you engage with your child. Try a random card Getting started?

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Guide Dogs My Time to Play

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If your child has a vision impairment, they'll need to learn about and explore the world in a slightly different way. We're here to support you and your child develop the practical skills and confidence to do just that.

Our specialist Habilitation Service can help your child develop a wide range of skills, with the focus on key early years development areas such as early movement, self-help practical skills (including feeding and dressing), and social and communication skills.

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my time to play  habilitation for visually impaired children  early years development for blind children  habilitation for blind children  early years development for visually impaired children

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Early years development and habilitation | Guide Dogs

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Our My Time to Play service offers group sessions on skills for early years development and habilitation for children aged 0-4 with a vision impairment.

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Early Years Sensory Discovery Pack. VICTA is offering a Sensory Discovery Pack filled with items to help you explore the different senses with your child.

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Early Years Order your Early Years Sensory Discovery Pack Start discovering together... We know it can be overwhelming knowing where to begin and how best to support your little one's development through play and precious one-on-one time. Our Sensory Discovery Packs are filled with items to help you

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VICTA have put together ideas, tips and resources to help you explore the world of sensory play.

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To get you started, we've put together ideas, tips and resources to help you explore the world of sensory play.

Discover why each sense is so important to your VI child's development and explore games, sensory play, songs, toys and more! You can also apply for our Early Years Sensory Discovery Pack which include specially selected items designed to complement our suggested activities.

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Early Years The world of play! Children are always learning while they play. It's a great way for you to help their development while having fun together. Children are always learning while they play. It's a great way for you to

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Henshaw's Children, Young People and Families (CYP) service supports children and young people with sight loss, and their families, across Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

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Our Children, Young People and Families (CYP) service supports children and young people with sight loss, and their families, across Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

CYP Service

Our CYP service supports people from birth to 18 years if they have sight loss, and birth to 25 years if they have additional disablities.

The service provides opportunities for children and young people to develop their independence skills through the I Can Do It residential programme, and social activities and opportunities for the whole family that usually take place during school holidays and on weekends.

The service also offers information, advice and guidance on a one-to-one basis, and can signpost or refer families to other organisations if needs be.

Our I Can Do It residential programme enables children and young people with sight loss aged 8-12 years and 13-17 years to develop independence skills. The programme covers a range of topics, a family day with a presentation to complete the course and celebrate individual achievement.

Holiday and Weekend Activities

Our CYP service offers a range of social activities for children and young people with sight loss, and their families, that take place on weekends and during school holidays. The activities we offer include a range of physical indoor and outdoor activities and social activities

You must book in advance to attend our activities. The activities have a booking fee however we highly subside all activities and we promote a fee weaver policy in a respectful manner to remove any financial barriers to attending our activities.

Information, Advice and Guidance

Our CYP team can also support children, young people and their families on a one-to-one basis, to answer any questions they may have. If the team can't support you directly, they can signpost or refer to other organisations.

Get in touch

Speak to one of our friendly team members today to find out more about our Children, Young People & Families service and how we can support you and your loved ones.

Learn how to get involved

From fundraising events to volunteering, there are plenty of ways to give to make a difference at Henshaws

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Children, Young People & Families service

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Our Children, Young People & Families (CYP) service in Greater Manchester and Merseyside supports children & their families with sight loss.

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The Nystagmus Network runs local get togethers, thanks to the support of our wonderful volunteers. To join one of them or even host your own, please contact us today. Everyone welcome!

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The Parents Booklet provides an overview for parents on how to prepare and what to look out for when a child is entering the educational system.

For specific advice, please contact your QTVI.

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For specific advice, please contact your QTVI.

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Information and resources on education and learning.

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If you’re affected by sight loss, we’re here for you

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Skip to content

Welcome to Thomas Pocklington Trust

We are a charity primarily staffed by blind and partially sighted people, and a 200-strong volunteer membership with lived experience of sight loss. Our work improves opportunities for blind and partially sighted people to have the same "Key Life Chances" as everyone else - Just Like You.
Find out more about Welcome to Thomas Pocklington Trust

#TacklePavementParking

Thomas Pocklington Trust is a leading advocate for access, equality and inclusion to the daily lives of blind and partially sighted people. Our current campaign #TacklePavementParking urgently seeks to address the daily obstacles caused by needless blocking of pedestrians' access.
Find out more about #TacklePavementParking

Now Hiring

Apply for an exciting Get Set Progress internship. We have positions available across the country. Applications close soon. Watch our video to meet our Class of 2023 interns.
Find out more about Now Hiring

How can we help you today?

News and events

Join our mailing list

Get the latest on our campaigns, news and events from Thomas Pocklington Trust by joining our mailing list
Join our mailing list

Registered charity number: 1113729

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Thomas Pocklington Trust is a national charity which supports blind and partially sighted people with a focus on Education, Employment and Engagement.

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‘What do we see 2 – How the world looks to vision impaired children and young people‘ simulates the five  most common conditions affecting vision impaired children and young people in the UK today.

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Skip to content

Our new video ' What do we see 2 - How the world looks to vision impaired children and young people ' simulates the five most common conditions affecting vision impaired children and young people in the UK today.

In this video we have simulated the conditions in an educational setting and used augmented reality to show how things typically look to those living with: Nystagmus, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Cataracts, Retinopathy of Prematurity and Optic Atrophy.

It is the follow up to our popular video 'What do we see? How the world looks to blind and partially sighted people'

Huge thanks to the Nystagmus Network, RNIB and Dr Lola Solebo at Great Ormond Street Hospital for their input in the creation of this video. And to the staff and pupils at North Bromsgrove High School & Sixth Form in Worcester.

Watch the video below

You might also be interested in...

There are a wide range of eye conditions that can cause sight loss. Here are some of the most common eye conditions, their symptoms, treatment options and where to find more information.
Find out more about 'Common eye conditions'

Thomas Pocklington Trust Student Support Community

This online community is for blind and partially sighted students, family and friends, education providers and other staff in the sector. It forms a supportive environment where relevant news, advice, questions and pieces of work can be shared to enable students with visual impairments to get the most out of their time at university.

Join our Facebook group

Join our mailing list

Get the latest on our campaigns, news and events from Thomas Pocklington Trust by joining our mailing list
Join our mailing list

Registered charity number: 1113729

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What Do We See? 2 - How the World Looks to Vision Impaired Children and Young People - Thomas Pocklington Trust

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Our video simulates and provides information on five of the most common conditions affecting vision impaired children and young people in the UK today.

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The Fellowship is a positive and sociable volunteer-run organisation that aims to provide information, advice and support for people with Albinism and their families. We also provide information about the condition to professionals working with people with Albinism. All our Trustees are people with Albinism or parents of children with Albinism.

The Albinism Fellowship is a registered charity in England and Wales: 1196004 as well as Scotland: SC009443. The Albinism Fellowship was founded in 1979, by our late President Dr. W. O. G. Taylor, a retired Ophthalmologist.

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About the Albinsim Fellowship | Albinism Fellowship

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The Fellowship is a positive and sociable volunteer-run organisation that aims to provide information, advice and support for people with Albinism and their families. We also provide information about the condition to professionals working with people with Albinism. All our Trustees are people with Albinism or parents of children with Albinism.

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We are the charity beating the fear and isolation of macular disease with world-class research, and the best advice and support.

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For specific information, contact your QTVI.

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Helping children with cortical visual impairment (CVI) learn to see

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We are very excited to launch our very first app!

Positive Looking To Go is a comprehensive collection of skills, activities and resources for teachers, teaching assistants and parents to help educate and develop children and young learners with SEND and VI. The App is packed with ideas and information to help in the class room or at home.

We will be updating our app regularly with new resources, activities and Marvin Adventures so keep an eye up for updates.

You can find us in the App store for iPhone or on Google Play for Android.

Find out more about Positive Looking here

Attend the next online practical training on the Positive Looking Visual Skills Programme - starts Jan 30th 2023

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Positive Looking to go app for iOS and Android

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Positive Looking to go is our new app available free from the App Store and Google Play full of activites and learning resources

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Could be a fun app but ads are placed over the tools. Tools are not clear, cannot figure out how to erase the entire page, changing pen and background is difficult because of ads placed over tools. Tried to have fun with it, but annoyance won and I quit.

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‎A VERY FUNNY paint app. PERFECT for kids of all age. Very EASY to use, but with lot of EXITING functions. NEWS : NOW WITH FANTASTIC RAINBOW COLOR Paint with these strokes: --SINGLE --SYMMETRICAL --STAR And Select from TINY to BIG SIZE stroke All in combination with: --NORMAL COLORS...

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‎Create beautiful patterns at your fingertips! Particlescape is an interactive particle and gravity simulator designed to be as beautiful as possible and to create an organic link between fingertips and screen. The rules are simple: - Touch to generate particles. - Double-tap-hold to use gravity. -...

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It's a great app, I hate sensory issues and it really calms me down, but I think it needs way more modes, and the reason I am writing this review is that I just got spammed by 50 notifications. I counted. This is the second time it happened. Apart from that, I like the app.

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‎This app simulates various heat-sensitive surfaces reacting to the heat of your fingertips. Simple, yet surprisingly relaxing and entertaining! Play alone or let your fingertips meet other fingertips from all around the world and doodle on the same surface! Several kinds of surface available : - He...

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No mean! Enjoy sounds by what was dropped physics dots!

--- How to play ---
Tap to color tab at the top of the screen and drop dots.
Object create menu is at the top-right of the screen.
Let's share your dropdots world!

--- unlock functions ---
Dots release interval 1 - 8 / second.
Collision of Dots (None/Same Color/All)
Gravity (Vertical/Horizontal/Device)

Thanks cocos2d-x !
Thanks box2d!

This app has been updated by Apple to display the Apple Watch app icon.

Free trial All function 5 minutes by reward ! wow!

The developer, LITTLEN STAR Inc., has not provided details about its privacy practices and handling of data to Apple.

No Details Provided

The developer will be required to provide privacy details when they submit their next app update.

Information

Compatibility

iPhone

Requires iOS 7.0 or later.

iPad

Requires iPadOS 7.0 or later.

iPod touch

Requires iOS 7.0 or later.

Mac

Requires macOS 11.0 or later and a Mac with Apple M1 chip or later.

Languages

English, Arabic, Catalan, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Norwegian Bokmål, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Traditional Chinese, Turkish, Ukrainian, Vietnamese

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‎Drop Dots - Enjoy sound by physics dots

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‎No mean! Enjoy sounds by what was dropped physics dots! --- How to play --- Tap to color tab at the top of the screen and drop dots. Object create menu is at the top-right of the screen. Let's share your dropdots world! --- unlock functions --- Dots release interval 1 - 8 / second.

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Chromatic Vision Simulator – Apps on Google Play

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“Chromatic Vision Simulator” simulates various type of color vision.

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The developer, App All Day Pty Ltd, indicated that the app's privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer's privacy policy.

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

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‎Baby's who are just starting to look and learn will be amazed by the high contrast visuals. Designed for developing minds aged 0-12 months. Baby Sensory High Contrast offers a series of high contrast visualisation for your baby. Between the ages of 0-12 months your baby starts to develop their visu...

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Research has proved that showing you baby high contrast images can help strengthen their cognitive abilities as well as their gross motor skills.

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Seeing AI - Talking Camera for the Blind

Seeing AI is a free app that narrates the world around you. Designed with and for the blind and low vision community, this ongoing research project harnesses the power of AI to open up the visual world. Seeing AI assists with daily tasks from reading, to describing photos, to identifying products, and more. The app continues to evolve as we hear from the community and AI research advances.

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RNIB Bookshare Early learning reading schemes

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How to request books not already on Bookshare.

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Request and share | UK education collection

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You can request books that are not yet available in the RNIB Bookshare collection. We will contact the publisher to ask if they are able to supply an electronic file. View the list of publishers working with us.

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Charity providing information and support for people affected by inherited sight loss. Funding medical research to accelerate the search for treatments

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Usher Kids UK has been set up to support, inform, connect and advocate for children with Usher syndrome and their families.
​The diagnosis of Usher syndrome can raise lots of questions for families. We hope that Usher Kids UK can help point you in the right direction in your journey to find answers to those questions, and help you build confidence in the path ahead for your child.

By submitting this form we will add you to our mailing list. We promise to only ever send you content that is directly relevant to Usher syndrome. We will never send spam, or give or sell your email address to anyone else. Y ou can request to be removed from the mailing list at any time (just email info@usherkidsuk.com).

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UsherKids UK - Bringing Together Families of Children with Usher Syndrome in the UK

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free postal library of Touch to Seebooks provide access to the visual world for blind and partially sighted children and adults

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A few things have changed (for the better) and others may have moved around a bit. You can browse our library, log in to your library membership account or join our library. If you get stuck give us a ring on 01635 299 771.

Menu

Our audio and tactile books transform lives.

Our free postal library of Touch to See books provides access to the visual world for blind and partially sighted people of all ages. Browse or Join our library online or donate now to support our work.

Fly away on a magical journey with The Snowman. We've brought this classic wintry tale to life with tactile pictures of the Snowman and Father Christmas, braille and an atmospheric audio guide read by BBC presenter and Simon Reeve.

Select an option to discover services relevant to you.

A decorative horizontal divider

Follow us on social media.

We have a number of social channels for you to enjoy our content and connect with us.

Useful links

Below you'll find useful links including our Privacy Policy and accessibility statement

Our charity information.

Charity name:

The Living Paintings Trust

Registered Voluntary Charity No:

1049103

A Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered in England No: 3095963.

Our address:

Unit 8 Kingsclere Park, Kingsclere, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 4SW

Call us:

01635 299 771

A Considered website.

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Our free postal library of tactile and audio books provides access to the visual world, books and learning for blind and partially sighted people in the UK. Browse or join our library online, or support our charity by donating today.

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postal lending library of children’s books in print and braille, and tactile books

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Our books all have braille, print and pictures. This allows children with little or no sight to share books with their sighted friends and family, and adult braille readers to enjoy stories with sighted children. There are over 14,000 books in the collection, catering for children from birth until they're independent readers. We have fiction and non-fiction in uncontracted (grade 1) and contracted (grade 2) braille and Moon - everything a young reader could want from The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Peppa Pig to Katie Morag, Dick King-Smith and books about space.

We add lots of new ClearVision books each month to make sure the collection is up-to-date and children with a visual impairment can enjoy the same titles as their sighted friends. We also have the UK's only loan collection of fully textured tactile books, in which every illustration is specially designed to be explored by touch, so children can enjoy fully-accessible pictures too.

Children learn to love books and become confident readers through shared reading. Confident reading helps maximise educational attainment and lets children make the most of their opportunities in life. With ClearVision books visually-impaired children and adults can enjoy all the pleasure, comfort and excitement reading together brings.

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ClearVision is a postal lending library of children's books designed to be shared by visually impaired and sighted children and adults. We lend books all across the UK and Ireland.

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https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/getting-support/help-for-children-and-families/living-independently/customeyes-books/

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The Royal Society for Blind Children supports blind and partially sighted children and young people, and their families.

Support us

What We Do

We offer a range of services including emotional support and practical advice for families, opportunities for children and young people to build confidence and skills through activities, and a specialist further education college.

Learn More

Remember A Charity Week

Start writing your Will free of charge with our trusted partner Farewill. We hope after you've catered for your loved ones that you might consider leaving a small share of your estate to RSBC.

Write your Will

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We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking "Accept", you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.

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Welcome to the Royal Society for Blind Children

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We are a national charity working with blind and partially sighted children and young people, and their families.

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Tech for All | Guide Dogs

Assistive technology for children with a vision impairment. For specific advice please speak to your QTVI.

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Set up vision-related accessibility features on iPad

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Set up vision-related accessibility features on iPad.

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In today's world, being able to use a computer (laptops/desktops) effectively is crucial, especially when it comes to getting the most out of your education. As a blind or partially sighted student, computers can provide a brilliant gateway into learning and careers.

During your time at school, college or university, most of the work you'll be doing will involve using a computer: accessing course material like lecture slides and class handouts, making notes, conducting independent research, using email and calendars, completing exams and writing essays/coursework. That's why it is vital you are able to access computers effectively and independently.

If you're struggling to use a computer because of your vision, please don't worry, there are a wide range of accessibility features built-in to computers to help you use them like a pro. Any one of these features could transform the way you access your education; empowering you to learn in a way which is easier, more productive and works for you. This will help you to be more independent, able to overcome the challenges ahead and get to where you want to be in your life.

We know getting started can seem difficult, that's why we created this guide. We will go through some of the ways you can make your computer accessible; covering the different accessibility features already built-in to your computer, how they work and how you can get started right away!

Top tip - give it a go and hang in there!

Accessibility features can take a bit of getting used to at first, so it is a good idea to approach things positively and with an open mind, give things a go and put in some practice. If you're not sure whether a feature is working for you, stay with it; you could surprise yourself, after a couple of goes you might be wondering how you managed without it!

Common built-in accessibility features

Computers come in different shapes, sizes and running different software. This can affect what accessibility tools and features you will have access to, but there are some features that are built-in on most types of computer.

Top tip - you can access built-in accessibility features anywhere!

One of the great things about built-in accessibility features is you do not need to install anything to use them. This means you are likely to be able to log into any computer at your school, college, university or library and have access to the accessibility options you need.

Here are some of the best common accessibility features to be aware of:

Screen reading

A screen reader is a really useful feature which allows you to interact with a computer/device without having to see what is happening on the screen. Using the keyboard, you can move around the screen while the screen reader reads out the content you are selecting. If you are unable or struggle to see what is displayed on a computer's screen, using a screen reader could transform the way you access your computer.

They can be especially handy for reading and interacting with text-based content such as lecture notes/handouts, books, websites and word-processing. Screen readers are not just super-useful for blind students, they can improve the productivity of partially sighted students too. Allowing you to navigate applications faster, make reading easier, reduce eye strain and improve typing accuracy.

You can use a screen reader in class to listen to your lecture notes/handouts, read books more comfortably and listen back/check over your written work to see if it sounds good. And don't worry about other people hearing your screen reader, you can use headphones.

Check out the pages later in this guide to discover how to get started with the built-in screen reader on your Windows, Apple or ChromeBook/Linux computer!

Magnification

This is a feature built-into most computers which allows you to enlarge content on the screen. You can zoom in and out, magnify part or all of the screen, use the mouse to move around what is being displayed or follow the location of the cursor.

Magnification can be great for zooming in on text and images you are struggling to see, such as lecture notes, worksheets, web research, graphs and diagrams and anything else that appears on your screen.

Using magnification could make all the difference between you being able to use a computer or not. At first it might seem a bit disorientating but stick at it as you will get used to it quicker than you think. Try starting with low levels of zoom and gradually increase it until you find the right level and have a play around with the different options.

Find out what built-in magnification features are available on Windows, Apple and other platforms and how to get started with them by using the links at the end of this page!

Colours, font size and screen resolution

Depending on your sight condition, changing the way colours and the size of content is displayed on your screen can make a crucial difference in how you access your computer.

Most computer platforms give you plenty of options to set things up the way that is effective and comfortable for you. Even small changes can make a big difference, for example, switching the colours to light text on a dark background or boosting the size of text fonts could make things much easier to see and navigate.

if you find using a large display doesn't make everything larger, or your laptop is a little too small, you can also adjust the screen resolution settings on your computer to help adapt the screen to your needs.

Finding the right colour and size options could make it much easier and quicker to read through things which have a large amount of text during your studies, such as books, web research, assignments, worksheets and exam papers. Think how much time and eye strain you could save!

The pages later in this guide walk you through the different options on Windows, Apple and other platforms, so check them out!

Mouse pointers and cursors

If you find it difficult to locate the mouse pointer or text cursor, there are settings which allow you to alter its shape, colour and size. This could be a major productivity boost if you currently spend too much time searching for or losing the mouse pointer/cursor on screen.

Using braille

If you use braille and have a relatively modern braille display or note taker, you can use it to read and control your computer. Find out more about braille equipment on our Useful accessible accessories for education page.

Getting started with accessibility on your computer

Now that we have talked about some of the common accessibility features you can find built-in to most computers, it is time to get started with actually using them! Computers run on different platforms, called operating systems (OS). This means how you use and activate the built-in accessibility features can vary. The most common operating system you are likely to come across during your studies and work life is Microsoft Windows. There are other platforms you may also use such as those found on Apple Macs, Google ChromeBooks and Linux.

We have divided the rest of this guide into sections for each platform, where you can discover and explore what features are available, what they do and how you can get started with using them right now. Check out the sections and get started!

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Make Your Computer Accessible for Education - Thomas Pocklington Trust

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Discover how to use built-in accessibility features on computers to empower blind and partially sighted students in education. Covers Windows, Apple, ChromeBook and Linux.

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Making Chromebooks accessible

for people with disabilities

Chromebooks come with helpful accessibility features created using inclusive design principles and based on user feedback, to empower people with disabilities to learn, play and connect.

Browser zoom

Browser zoom allows visually impaired people to magnify just their browser window while everything else, like the tabs and icons, stays the same size.

Display size

People can choose to enlarge all on-screen text and visuals, and easily revert back if necessary.

Full-screen magnifier

Zoom in on Chromebook to get a closer look at text and images. Full-screen magnification on Chromebook makes on-screen content easier to see by making the screen up to 20 times the default size.

Docked magnifier

Some people may not want to alter their entire viewing experience. The docked magnifier allows people with visual impairments to magnify just the top third of their screen, while the rest of the screen is resized to fit in the bottom section.

Font size

Chromebook lets those who are visually impaired adjust font sizing to make reading easier while leaving other aspects of the display at their default size.

Large mouse cursor

A larger cursor can make a big difference. Chromebooks enable people to enlarge just the mouse cursor so that it's easier to see.

Invert colours

with a quick keyboard shortcut

High contrast mode inverts colours to make on-screen content easier to read for people with low vision or for those working in bright environments. It can also reduce the effects of screen glare to make working more comfortable in any environment. Try the shortcut: Ctrl + Search ( ) + H to activate it.

Customise caption styles

Easily adjust caption size, colour and typeface for a customised closed caption experience. Select 'Captions' in your Chromebook's accessibility settings to update these features.

Mono audio

People who are hard of hearing can select mono audio to play the same sound through both speakers so that they don't miss content in stereo sound. Select 'Mono audio' in your Chromebook's accessibility settings to use this feature.

ChromeVox

ChromeVox, Chromebook's built-in screen reader, helps people who are blind or with low vision by making the computer speak every time that they move their focus by using their mouse or keyboard. Chromebook can also be used with a refreshable braille display.

Select to Speak

With Select to Speak, choose specific lines or sections of the screen to be read aloud. While Chrome OS reads the selected words aloud, each word is highlighted visually, which can be especially useful for people with dyslexia, new language learners and more.

Text-to-speech settings

Text-to-speech settings allow people to customise voice, speech rate, pitch, volume and more for optimal accessibility.

On-screen keyboard

People can input information on a Chromebook in a variety of ways beyond a traditional keyboard: via an on-screen keyboard, using a mouse, connected joystick, touchscreen or even handwriting.

Touchpad settings

To make clicking more accessible, people with dexterity impairments can customise touchpad settings to enable automatic clicks, tap dragging or tap-to-click functionality.

Physical keyboard settings

Customise how Chromebook's physical keyboard responds to touch.

Sticky keys

Sticky keys can help people with dexterity impairments more easily use keyboard shortcuts. This feature makes it possible to press only one key at a time in sequence to activate a keyboard shortcut, instead of having to hold down multiple keys at once.

Type using your voice with

The dictation feature on Chromebook lets people enter text into any field using their voice. Dictation can be especially helpful for those with motor disabilities or dexterity impairments, or anyone who wants to take a break from typing. In your Chromebook's accessibility settings under 'Keyboard and text input', select 'Enable dictation (speak to type)'.

How to turn on

Chromebook accessibility features

Step 2

Navigate to the bottom of the menu and select 'Advanced'

Step 3

In the 'Accessibility' section, select 'Manage accessibility features' to choose the features that you want to enable

Google for Education

Students in the same classroom learn in different ways. That's why Google for Education products, including Chromebooks and G Suite for Education, are built with accessibility in mind, to help every student achieve their full potential.

Android accessibility

Learn about more accessibility tools on Android.

Meet the team

David Tseng, technical lead for Chrome OS accessibility services, shares how he's dedicated his career to using technology to break down barriers for people with disabilities.

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Accessibility for people with disabilities - Google Chromebooks

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Making Chromebooks accessible for people with disabilities Chromebooks come with helpful accessibility features created using inclusive design principles and based on user feedback, to empower people with disabilities to learn, play and connect. Browser zoom allows visually impaired people to magnify just their browser window while everything else, like the tabs and icons, stays the same size.

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Google for Education products are created with accessibility in mind, to help every student learn, be inspired, and achieve their full potential.

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online touch typing programme. https://www.doorwayonline.org.uk/activities/text-type/

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Find out about some of the professionals who can support your visually impaired child.

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Find out about some of the professionals who can support your visually impaired child.

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Accessibility Menu

Find out about some of the professionals who can support your visually impaired child.

Learn how to get involved

From fundraising events to volunteering, there are plenty of ways to give to make a difference at Henshaws

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Glossary of professionals supporting children - eBook

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Hints & Tips is a home for articles, videos, tips, tricks and useful information. Whether you are living with sight loss, supporting someone who is or simply want to educate yourself, explore our helpful resources, inspiring stories and how-to guides to learn more.

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What is a Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI)?

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What is a Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI)?

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One of the most common questions we get asked as a charity supporting people with sight loss is: 'What is a Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) and how do I get one?'

We asked one of our Patient Support Officers, Gail, who works at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, to give us the answer. She has written this handy guide to CVIs.

What is a CVI and how do I get one?

A Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) is a legal document that formally registers your sight loss and is also the medical evidence which is often asked for when applying for travel passes or benefits. Your consultant can either register you as sight impaired or severely sight impaired, depending on how you meet the criteria for a CVI (see below).

Your eye consultant is the only person who can complete a CVI form.

You must have significant sight loss in both eyes which cannot be corrected by glasses or contact lenses to qualify for a CVI.

What criteria do I need to meet to receive a CVI?

The criteria for a CVI are based upon what you can see on the eye chart (your visual acuity), and also if there is a significant loss of how much you can see from the side of your eye when you are looking straight forward (your field of vision).

The RNIB has some useful information about how your eye specialist will decide whether you meet the criteria for a CVI.

My consultant has completed a CVI, what next?

When your consultant has completed your CVI, if you live in Greater Manchester, it will be sent to Henshaws First Step CVI Service. Someone from the service will then contact you to talk you through what support is available to you, ensuring you have the information and support you need at the point of your sight loss diagnosis.

A copy will then be sent out in the post to yourself, which is your copy to keep safe. If you ever need to send a copy of your CVI for any reason, please do send a copy and not the original.

A copy will also be sent to your GP to keep in your notes, and a copy will be sent to your local council where you live, to the Adult Social Care Sensory Team. Once the Sensory Team receive your CVI, they will either ring you or send out a letter in the post asking if you would like to be added on the register of people with sight loss. The register is confidential, and your details will not be shared with anyone.

The Sensory Team will also offer to come and see you at home to discuss how your sight loss is affecting you in your daily life.

Why have a CVI?

Your CVI is your medical evidence of your sight loss. If you need to apply for travel passes, taxi vouchers, or benefits due to your sight loss, the concession or benefit provider will ask if you have a CVI, and you will need to send it along with your application.

Even if it isn't essential to use your CVI as evidence when applying for a particular benefit or concession, it is one of the easiest pieces of evidence you can submit to prove your eligibility.

Having a CVI provides a way of accessing services which may help you live as independently as possible with your sight loss. Benefits include help with NHS costs, help with your Council Tax bill and tax allowances, leisure discounts, free public transport, and Personal Independence Payment. Think of it as your passport to lots of support that could help you to be more independent, and save money.

It is important to note: whether you are registered sight impaired or severely sight impaired will determine exactly what benefits and concessions you are entitled to. For more information on what concessions are available across Greater Manchester, please do reach out to us at Henshaws.

What happens if I lose my CVI?

If you lose your copy of your CVI, you can contact us at Henshaws, and we can locate a copy of your CVI for you either via your local Sensory Team, or your GP or your hospital notes.

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Our guide to the Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI)

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Find out what a 'Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI)' is and how to get one from one of our Patient Support Officers, Gail.

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Babyproofing your home for visually impaired infants

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Babyproofing your home for visually impaired infants

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Babyproofing your home for visually impaired infants

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Babyproofing your Home for a Visually Impaired Baby or Toddler.

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Accessibility Menu

Toilet training your toddler can strike fear into the hearts of most parents, so how does it work if your child is visually impaired? Most of the general guidelines apply to both sighted and visually impaired children, but there are just some extra considerations to think about if your child is blind or has low vision.

Learn how to get involved

From fundraising events to volunteering, there are plenty of ways to give to make a difference at Henshaws

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Hints and Tips is a home for articles, videos, tips, and tricks. Here is our 'tips for toilet training your visually impaired child' eBook.

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Make It Easier To See – Simple Ideas to help people with cerebral visual impairment and brain based visual problems

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Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Visual Behaviours

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Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Visual Behaviours

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Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Visual Behaviours ASD can affect the way people use their vision – it is common to become overwhelmed by lots of sensory input. Some people deal with this by &#…

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For specific advice, please ask your QTVI.

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Access Arrangements are pre-examination adjustments for candidates based on evidence of need and normal way of working. Access Arrangements fall into two distinct categories: some arrangements are delegated to centres, others require prior JCQ awarding body approval.

Access Arrangements allow candidates/learners with special educational needs, disabilities or temporary injuries to access the assessment without changing the demands of the assessment. For example, readers, scribes and Braille question papers. In this way Awarding Bodies will comply with the duty of the Equality Act 2010 to make 'reasonable adjustments'.
Reasonable Adjustments
The Equality Act 2010 requires an Awarding Body to make reasonable adjustments where a disabled person would be at a substantial disadvantage in undertaking an assessment.

A reasonable adjustment for a particular person may be unique to that individual and may not be included in the list of available Access Arrangements.

How reasonable the adjustment is will depend on a number of factors including the needs of the disabled candidate/learner. An adjustment may not be considered reasonable if it involves unreasonable costs, timeframes or affects the security or integrity of the assessment.

There is no duty on the Awarding Bodies to make any adjustment to the assessment objectives being tested in an assessment.
Special Consideration
Special Consideration is a post examination adjustment to a candidate's mark or grade to reflect temporary injury, illness or other indisposition at the time of the examination/assessment.

Forms

Within this section you will find JCQ forms for Access Arrangements, Reasonable Adjustments and Special Consideration.

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Access Arrangements, Reasonable Adjustments and Special Consideration - JCQ Joint Council for Qualifications

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Access Arrangements are pre-examination adjustments for candidates based on evidence of need and normal way of working. Access Arrangements fall into two distinct categories: some arrangements are delegated to centres, others require prior JCQ awarding body approval. Access Arrangements allow candidates/learners with special educational needs, disabilities or temporary injuries to access the assessment without changing the demands of the assessment.

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Calculators – including standalone calculators, calculators for Windows computers, calculators for iPads and calculators that run in browsers.

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Calculators – including standalone calculators, calculators for Windows computers, calculators for iPads and calculators that run in browsers.

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information on a range of revision guides.

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information on a range of revision guides.

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answers to queries – including line numbering in MLP and braille exam papers, prose passages in braille, further reading and examples.

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answers to queries – including line numbering in MLP and braille exam papers, prose passages in braille, further reading and examples.

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helpful information to address popular questions about SATs.

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helpful information to address popular questions about SATs.

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For specific advice please speak to your QTVI

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Preparing candidates

An understanding of how examination papers are modified may help you to determine whether a modified paper may be suitable for a candidate or when preparing candidates for assessment using a modified paper.

You may also find modification methods to be useful when producing your own everyday materials.

This activity gives an introduction to how various question types may be modified for VI candidates. Please note that centres should not modify their own exam papers - this work is done by specialist modifiers on behalf of the Awarding Organisations.

Guidance

The guidance provided in this activity is designed to give you an introduction to some of the concepts involved in modification and is by no means comprehensive. For more detailed guidance you can refer to the following.

Modification of examination papers for General Qualifications is carried out according to a document called "Best practice guidance for the modification and production of examination papers for candidates with a visual impairment", which is available on UKAAF's website.
Note: this document is in the process of being updated at this time [September 2020].

The RNIB also published 'Well Prepared!' which is an illustrated guide to modifying examination, assessment and curriculum materials for blind and partially sighted learners. This book is now out of print but can be downloaded from RNIB Bookshare (free registration).

Modification by the examination centre

For reasons of resourcing and cost it may not be possible to obtain papers in the candidate's exact preferred format. In such cases further modification may be required within the examination centre.

You will need permission to carry this out.

Early opening

Rules vary about opening papers early to make such changes, depending on the nature of the examination. Any changes made to the presentation of a paper at a local level should not affect the content of the questions unless these have been approved by the awarding body. Making changes to papers without explicit permission constitutes malpractice and may invalidate the assessment.

Coloured paper

For candidates who have difficulty with the contrast between print and background it may be appropriate to gain permission in advance to open the paper early and make a high quality photocopy of it onto their preferred colour of paper.

Visual cues

Examination papers use a lot of visual cues to assist in making the assessment clear and accessible to candidates. These include:

layout and numbering of the questions

separation of questions

format of text

use of emphasis in text

reference to separate source materials

format of source materials eg tables

spaces, lines and boxes for the candidate response

specific instructions for how to proceed

To make the paper accessible to candidates with visual impairment, modifications and alternate approaches are needed.

Additionally, a lot of examination papers contain visually based information such as diagrams, images and graphical forms that also need to be modified to make them accessible.

Overall approaches

Diagrams, images and graphs

Printed information is often presented in a 'graphical' format rather than textual. For example;

diagrams

tables

graphs (line, bar, scatter etc)

photographs and drawn images

This is not only apparent in mathematics and science but also where data is commonly used such as geography, history and psychology. The majority of examinations will contain some form of (non-textual) visual material, whatever the subject.

The most common type of modification is to simplify the visual material. The purpose of this approach is to reduce visual complexity so that pupils with visual impairments can demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the subject content without having to struggle to access the information.

Here are a few ways to simplify visual material.

Remove unnecessary detail

Some pictures or diagrams include details for the sake of realism or real-world context, which are not needed to answer the question. The example below shows a tube of glue but the question only requires the candidate to identify the hazard signs on it.

Explore this question to identify possible issues for VI candidates.

Select the various parts or use the 'next' button to identify items that some VI candidates might find difficult.

Original version

You can compare a modified version of the same question.

Modifications

Related subjects

Simplify graphs

Line graphs, scatter graphs and bar charts are very common in many subjects, so pupils should have had plenty of practice before meeting one in an exam. This example illustrates some of the aspects that must be considered to make a line graph accessible.

Compare this modified version of the same question.

Modifications

Related subjects

Supplement with a written explanation

Some tasks may require additional written explanation to ensure that a pupil with a visual impairment grasps what is happening in a picture or diagram, even if this has also been simplified, or enlarged as in the example below.

Compare this modified version of the same question.

Modifications

Related subjects

English, humanities and many others

Other considerations

High quality reproduction should be used, as it was in the original and modified questions

The paragraph spacing may need to be increased, which is appropriate for extended passages of text.

Picture quality is difficult to ensure if, for example, a paper is photocopied for a practice paper, or during early opening for a candidate who requires a different print size. "Photo" or "picture" settings on the photocopier should be used.

Replace with a written description

The photograph below is used to accompany a newspaper article, which is reference material for an English examination question.

Have a go at writing a paragraph to replace the photograph.

Description

Other approaches

The above examples show a few of the general techniques that can be used to modify visual materials:

Remove unnecessary information

Simplify graphs

Supplement with a written explanation

Replace a picture or diagram with a written description

Consider these other approaches:

Replace a picture or diagram with a real item or model, and cut-outs

Remove a picture or diagram because it is unnecessary (eg giving context)

Reduce the amount of information if it is not needed

Adjust a scale diagram to yield answers with coarser accuracy needed (eg to nearest .5cm rather than nearest mm)

Increase the tolerance in the mark scheme for direct measurement tasks (eg measuring and angle or distance on a diagram

Replace an inherently visual question with a non-visual equivalent

Replace a drawing task where the drawing is simply a means of communicating a response (ie where drawing ability is not the skill being assessed)

Allow different answers that reflect usual, effective or preferred ways of working of a VI candidate (eg which method of input to a PC would be most effective for selecting from a menu)

Convert a 3D diagram to a 2D diagram or several 2D diagrams

Clarify music stave notation by spacing out, thickening lines and standardising on tails below heads for notes)

Simplify and clarify bar charts by adjusting shading and adding grid lines to help scanning across

Original version

Modification and transcription

Like modified print papers, braille papers require modification before they are transcribed into braille. This is because the layout, format and instructions will not make sense if simply transcribed. Also, visual material such as diagrams, maps and pictures will need to be modified and labels transcribed.

Many of the principles discussed above for modified print papers will apply equally to braille papers.

Standards

The Rules of Unified English Braille (2013) should be followed for braille examination modification. These standards are produced by the International Council on English Braille (ICEB).

The guidance is further complemented by other basic references:

Unified English Braille - Guidelines for Technical Material (ICEB)

RNIB guide to Using UEB for Maths

RNIB guides to Using UEB for Science

Additional Guidance on UEB Mathematics produced by UKAAF, which provides extra guidance for the UK

The specific guidance given in this last document, eg on layout, choice of grade 1 indicators, etc., should be followed for all mathematics exam paper transcriptions, as well as for maths expressions in science and computing papers.

The UKAAF guidance provides specific details on how braille modified papers should be produced. Familiarity with these layouts through past paper practice and adopting the conventions for course materials will help to prepare the candidate.

Print version

It is a requirement that a print version of each braille paper be produced, to assist readers, scribes and invigilators. This should be textually accurate, following the braille script and all the amendments; including 'hidden text' if it is read by the screen reader. It should be clearly headed to indicate that it is the print version of the braille paper.

A candidate who uses a computer screen reader as their normal way of working should be able to use the computer to read text in an exam.

There are also issues around the implementation of screen reader technology. Screen reader software programs are not designed to a common standard, so the facilities offered by them can vary widely. In addition, once installed a screen reader can be configured in many different ways to suit the needs and preferences of the user. Also there can be great variability in the skill level of the user, depending on the length of time they have been using a screen reader and the level of instructional expertise to which they have had access.

File formats

The screen reader version of the exam paper will generally be a PDF file for the main question text (although this will be subject to specification by the awarding body). This might be accompanied by diagrams in a medium chosen by the candidate and their exam centre, usually modified large print diagrams, or tactile diagrams on brailon or swell paper, with braille or print labels.

There might also be additional PDF, HTML or other files, as dictated by the requirements of the exam. These might include content such as a screen shot that is to be examined electronically by the candidate with their screen reader, or sources in an English Literature or History paper, where the modifier or producer judge it would be easier to have them as separate files from the questions.

It should not be taken for granted that exam papers in every subject and every type of printed material can necessarily be translated meaningfully into a form accessible via speech.

Modifications within reader version

The screen reader format may include modifications to facilitate access, such as 'hidden' text that will be spoken by the screen reader, for example alternative text descriptions for graphic images.

Print copy of reader version

A print copy of the screen reader version should always be provided for use by any staff supporting the candidate during the course of the exam. This is especially important if the candidate is reading the paper on a device without a screen, such as a QWERTY or braille notetaker.

By default the Print Transcript is just a printed copy of the screen reader document file. One addition that might be required is wording to indicate that it is a 'Print transcription of a version for use with a screen reader' if words to that effect are not included within the file. Any text that is 'hidden' in the screen reader version but will be spoken by the screen reader should also be included in the Print Transcript.

Modifiers exercise their professional judgement in order to ensure that the key principles of modification are upheld. There is no single correct way of doing this and not all teachers will agree with the modifications adopted in every paper.

The important thing is to understand the range of modifications that may be used and to ensure that candidates are familiar with them.

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An understanding of how examination papers are modified may help you to determine whether a modified paper may be suitable for a candidate or when preparing candidates for assessment using a modified paper. You may also find modification methods to be useful when producing your own everyday materials.

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Thomas Pocklington Trust - Secondary School

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Thomas Pocklington Trust - Secondary School

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Some resources to help support young blind and partially sighted people through their studies at secondary school.

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https://blindinbusiness.org.uk/students

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Access to Work is a government scheme designed to provide extra support for individuals with disabilities or physical and mental health conditions in their work journey. The scheme assists individuals of all ages across England, Scotland, and Wales.

As an employee, you have the right to receive support from your employer, who is legally obligated to consider reasonable adjustments to accommodate your needs. This may include adjustments to the job itself, the recruitment process, or providing additional equipment. Begin by having an open conversation with your employer to explore how they can support you.

In addition to your employer's assistance, Access to Work can offer you further aid. The scheme provides practical solutions tailored to your specific needs. Support may include grants to assist with the costs of practical accommodations in the workplace, such as hiring support workers or acquiring specialised equipment. Travel expenses or mental health support can also be covered. It's important to note that Access to Work doesn't require you to repay any grants or financial support provided.

Applying for Access to Work is a straightforward process. Begin by discussing the options with your employer, as they may have insights into how we can help you. Alternatively, our dedicated Access to Work advisers are ready to collaborate directly with you and your employer. Together, we can suggest practical changes and accommodations that will enhance your work environment.

To be eligible for Access to Work, you must have a disability or health condition (physical or mental) that affects your ability to perform certain tasks in your job or commute effectively. You must also be 16 years or older and reside in England, Scotland, or Wales. You can check your eligibility on gov.uk.

Visit the website at https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work to access the full eligibility criteria and begin your application for Access to Work. For more information, you can also explore the easy-to-understand factsheet or watch the British Sign Language (BSL) videos on the DWP YouTube sign channel.

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Access to Work - Thomas Pocklington Trust

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The Government's Access to Work grant scheme supports people with disabilities or health conditions start a new job or stay in work.

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Employment and Internships

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Whether you're entering the job market for the first time or returning after sight loss, Thomas Pocklington Trust will provide guidance for every step of the way.

Our bespoke service, Works For Me, is tailored to help you develop employability skills, navigate the job market or advance your career. Here you will find lots of resources providing advice on creating effective CVs and application forms, complete with templates, tips, and more. We even offer free coaching and mentoring by experienced professionals to help you identify and achieve your career goals.

If you're starting your career, our internship programme, Get Set Progress, offers paid placements designed specifically for individuals with visual impairments. Through our We Work videos and employment stories you can hear firsthand from blind and partially sighted individuals and employers about their experiences.

For employers, we have a dedicated section that offers valuable information and practical support in hiring blind and partially sighted individuals. Gain insights from businesses who have successfully done so.

Learn more about the Access to Work scheme provides support for individuals with disabilities or health conditions who are starting a new job or aiming to remain employed.

Finally, find out more about our employment campaigns which focus on improving opportunities in the workplace and fostering positive societal attitudes towards blind and partially sighted individuals.

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Employment and Internships - Thomas Pocklington Trust

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Thomas Pocklington Trust Employment service supports blind and partially sighted people wanting to start, restart or progress their careers.

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What is it about?

If you want to get some support to help you get on the pathway to greater opportunities and employment then our employment programme is for you.

The sessions can be run at the Life Without Limits Centre (LWLC) in London or online at the date and time of your convenience.
Take part in our new employment programmes:
Learn to Earn

Learn how to navigate the job market as a vision impaired young person, from CV writing and applications to attending interviews and completing Aptitude tests. If you feel that you are not quite ready for employment, we can support you to go into further education, to strengthen your knowledge, or if you need more practical experience, we can help you into volunteering and work experience.

Entrepreneurship

Are you a vision impaired young person with an entrepreneurial spirit?

Look no further, RSBC is committed to helping small business owners achieve their goals, and we are here to support you too. Our programme takes you through every step of starting your own business, from creating a solid business plan to establishing your brand online.

Who is it for?

So if you are under 25, and looking to kick starting your career, set up your own business, or get involved in volunteering, we can support you.

How will it help me?

The service is tailored to you as an individual. You will get the support you need to find the right career, develop your business or find the volunteering opportunity that suits you.

How do I join?

If you are interested in joining the Employment sessions or you have questions, please fill the form below.

Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

You may also be interested in...

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Join the RSBC employment sessions for blind and partially sighted young people. Visit our employment page for more information.

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Bringing students together supporting transitions into higher education and the workplace Our support programmes for young adults focus around growing networks and skills with a focus on employability .

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Immersive Reader provides options for a comfortable and easy to process experience by allowing you to listen to the text read aloud or adjust how text appears by modifying spacing, colour and more.

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In This Topic

Use Immersive Reader in Word desktop

1. Open your Word document.

2. Select the View tab, then select Immersive Reader . Immersive Reader will launch a full screen experience.

3. Choose the Immersive Reader options that work for you from the ribbon.

Read Aloud highlights each word as it reads your document to you.

Tip: Get directly to Read Aloud by right clicking anywhere in your document and selecting Read Aloud.

Language Settings

To change the language for immersive reader, select Review, Language, then Language, and select Set Proofing Language. You can select a language from there.

Additional resources:

Close Immersive Reader

Select the View tab, then select Immersive Reader, then select Close Immersive Reader.

Keyboard shortcuts for Read Aloud

Start or exit Read Aloud: Ctrl+Alt+Space

Pause or play Read Alout: Ctrl+Space

Speed up reading speed: Alt+Right

Slow down reading speed: Alt+Left

Read the previous paragraph: Ctrl+Right

Read the next paragraph: Ctrl+Left

In This Topic

Use Immersive Reader in Word for the web

Select the View, then Immersive reader. Your document will open in a full screen format.

Using Immersive Reader

Once your document opens within Immersive Reader, you can do one or more of the following, depending on how you want to focus on the content in your document:

Voice Options

Select the gear icon to open Voice Settings.

The Voice Speed slider controls the playback speed of the reader.

Text options

You can change the appearance of your document by using Text options. The choices you make in text options can help remove visual distraction and improve text readability.

The Text Options menu lets you:

Parts of Speech

Parts of Speech controls grammar highlighting and helps readers understand complex sentences.

Reading preferences

Line Focus enables readers to narrow the focus of their reading experience by highlighting sets of one, three, or five lines within their chosen material in Immersive Reader.

Picture Dictionary gives you the ability to click on any single word and view visual support. You can also hear the word read aloud.

Translate allows you to view a selected word or the entire document in your preferred language.

Use the toggles to adjust your reading preferences.

Shortcut keys for Immersive Reader

Use keyboard shortcuts to navigate.

Close Immersive Reader

Select the back arrow or tap Esc on your keyboard to exit Immersive Reader.

Use Immersive Reader in Word for iPad

Some Immersive Reader tools are available in Word for iPad. To turn on Immersive Reader while reading or editing a Word document:

2. Select Immersive Reader

3. Choose from the following tools to make your document more comfortable to read and edit.

Language support

Languages and products supported by Immersive Reader

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Use Learning Tools to help pronounce words correctly, read accurately, and understand what you read.

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What help can I get for my vision impaired child and my family?

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General advice. For more specific advice please speak to your QTVI

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Family support

If your child has received a vision impairment diagnosis, it can help to know you have someone in your corner.

Specialist advice from our 'Families First' service can help make life easier to navigate together as a family.

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Supporting siblings of children with a vision impairment

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Supporting siblings of children with a vision impairment

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Assistive technology – Royal Society for Blind Children

Assistive technology

Become more confident and independent, with the help of the right assistive technology.

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Royal Society for Blind Children - Visualsoft

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Royal Society for Blind Children - Visualsoft

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Futures – Royal Society for Blind Children

Thinking about your future?

No matter what stage you’re at, we’re here to give you the help and support you need as you start to make plans for your future.

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For specific advice please ask your QTVI

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victaparents.org.uk - Information and support for families of a child is blind or partially sighted

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The VICTA Parent Portal is a one stop information hub for all parents and carers raising a child who is blind or partially sighted.

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Tips to promote the development of basic concepts and prebraille skills in young children who are blind or visually impaired

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Teaching Basic Concepts and Pre-Braille Skills – Paths to Literacy

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Paths to Literacy Teaching Basic Concepts and Pre-Braille Skills. For teachers, families, and others interested in literacy for children and youth with visual impairments

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RNIB braille resources can help anyone learn to read braille easily

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RNIB braille resources can help anyone learn to read braille easily

Anyone can learn braille and, like anything else, the more you practise, the better you get.

We offer a range of courses and training sessions, as well as some free resources and fun introductions to braille.

We believe braille is a vital tool for anyone who is blind or partially sighted. Whatever age you are, why not give learning braille a go.

Learning the braille code is relatively simple, although it can take a while to train your fingers to sense the dots by touch. Whether you are learning braille for yourself or to support someone else, we have resources that can help you. Our learning section has a wealth of information about learning braille and the courses and support we can provide, including learning resources for both touch and sighted learners.

If you're losing your sight and you're considering learning braille, we'd recommend that you learn braille by touch rather than by sight. If you need support coming to terms with your sight condition, you can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999or email [email protected]

The braille alphabet card shows the embossed braille alphabet, punctuation marks and numbers, together with the print translation. The braille alphabet card shows the embossed braille alphabet, punctuation marks and numbers, together with the print translation.  For more information, please contact our helpline on 0303 123 9999 and quote product code: PR10223

Whether new to learning braille, supporting someone who reads braille or an experienced braillist, we have everything you need.

LEGO® Braille Bricks

LEGO® Braille Bricks is a playful tool to teach braille to children with vision impairment, tested and developed by the LEGO Foundation in collaboration with RNIB. It is widely available within education establishments, from local authorities in the UK, and in online shops.

RNIB Shop

We've got hundreds of products designed to improve the day-to-day lives of blind or partially sighted people

RNIB Shop

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Learn braille with RNIB's braille resources. We offer a range of courses and training sessions, as well as some free resources and fun introductions to braille.

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What is Pre-Braille? - Lego Braille Bricks

Pre-braille aims to stimulate the interest of very young children in reading. It develops the skills necessary to learn to read and write in braille.

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What is Pre-Braille? - Lego Braille Bricks

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Pre-braille aims to stimulate the interest of very young children in reading. It develops the skills necessary to learn to read and write in braille.

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If you’re affected by sight loss, we’re here for you

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Please speak to your QTVI for specific advice.

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Tactile blankets are a great way to promote the development of motor and cognitive skills in babies who are blind, visually impaired, deafblind or multiple disabled.

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Tactile baby blankets or quilts are a wonderful way to encourage exploration among our youngest children who are blind or visually impaired, including those with multiple disabilities or deafblindness. Presenting the child with a variety of tactile elements encourages exploration and promotes a baby's cognitive development. While tactile blankets may not seem to be related to literacy, they can help babies with visual impairments to develop important motor skills, as well as an understanding of basic concepts, which are at the foundation of literacy.

You can also use a tactile blanket to observe what textures and colors the child is interested in, a simple form of assessing what the child is interested in. It may take awhile for the child to allow their hands, feet or cheeks to touch the texture, but all of these opportunities develop interest, use of hands, tactual awareness and cognition.

Design

Ideally blankets should be designed to suit the individual needs and interests of a specific child. Considerations such a child's preferred color (which is especially important in children with cortical visual impairment or CVI) can be taken into account. Some children strongly prefer different types of textures or, conversely, are reluctant to touch certain textures. While all items that are attached to a blanket should be very sturdy, care should also be taken with small items which may be a choking hazard.

Blankets can be a collaborative project, with help and input from the family, TVI, Early Intervention Specialist, Occupational Therapist and any other members of the team.

Specifications

The blankets shown here were made by my mother, who is a retired nurse. She has been sewing all her life, and started sewing the blankets during the last 5 years. She learned that there was a need for them and she wanted to help meet that need. She lives in Pennsylvania and sends the blankets to me when she's finished. At first we distributed them to TVIs working in early intervention, but now we share them with Perkins International, where they have caught on around the world.

Blankets measure three feet by two feet. (This is the size of an infant to lie on our hold on their lap.)

One side of the blanket should be a SOLID color. (This provides good contrast for toys or other items placed on it.)

Variety of colors and textures should be added to the other side. This may include corduroy, velvet, flannel.

Small, but sturdy items can be sewn onto the textured side, such as an empty spool of thread on a sturdy piece of string, a plastic scrubby, a pocket with something inside (like a small teddy bear).

Materials that make sound can be attached, such as mylar crinkle paper, small bells or other items of interest to the child.

Materials may be donated or recycled (e.g. fabric stores may be willing to donate scraps or old outfits that the child has outgrown can be repurposed)

The amount of time needed to make a blanket will depend on the skills of the seamstress, as well as how many additional items are attached. Pat Jacobs makes several at once and says that it takes her about an hour for each one.

Using the Blanket

The blanket can be used with the baby in different positions, such as on the stomach or back, or sitting up.

The baby's socks can be removed, to explore with feet and toes.

As babies begin to explore, they realize that their hands can give them a lot of information.

Skills Addressed Through Tactile Blanket

tactile exploration

gross motor skills (e.g. rolling over, kicking, head control)

visual scanning

auditory localization

fine motor skills (e.g. raking, grasp and release, pincer grasp)

categorization and concept development (smooth, rough, scratchy, loud)

The babies pictured in the photos above are developing head strength and neck control while exploring different textures.
The important thing to remember is that there is no single right way to make a blanket. Think about what the child is interested in and what skills you are hoping to promote. Then use your imagination and put your creativity to work!

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Tactile Baby Blankets - Paths to Literacy

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Paths to Literacy Tactile Baby Blankets. For teachers, families, and others interested in literacy for children and youth with visual impairments

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Ways to read, iPad, Laptop, Easy reader app

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Ways to read, iPad, Laptop, Easy reader app

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Want to read on an iPad, want to learn more about Dolphin EasyReader or modify a book into a word document that is as accessible as possible. Your questions about reading the books you download from RNIB Bookshare are answered here.

Ways to read

Disclaimer: Please note that the accessible formats available on RNIB Bookshare-including braille and audio-are automatically generated from electronic master files (ePub or PDF) provided by publishers. While we strive to ensure high-quality conversion, formatting and structure may vary depending on the source file. Users are encouraged to contact us if they encounter any issues with accessibility or readability.

Help topics

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Reading accessible books - RNIB Bookshare

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Want to read on an iPad, want to learn more about Dolphin EasyReader or modify a book into a word document that is as accessible as possible. Your questions about reading the books you download from RNIB Bookshare are answered here.

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Helix Oxford Vision Maths Set - RNIB Accredited 

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Helix Oxford Vision Maths Set - RNIB Accredited 

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Helix Oxford Vision Maths Set - RNIB Accredited

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This RNIB-accredited maths set features large print, raised markings, and non-slip pads for accessible use by those with vision impairment or learning difficulties.

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A Guide to VI Friendly Sport by British Blind Sport

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A Guide to VI Friendly Sport by British Blind Sport

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For specific advice, please ask your QTVI.

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A Guide for supporting visually impaired CYP in the pool.

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A Guide for supporting visually impaired CYP in the pool.

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For specific advice, please ask your QTVI.

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How I use the Apple Pencil with low vision

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How I use the Apple Pencil in the classroom, workplace and as a blogger.

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Vika’s FUN-tastic Friday! A brand new online youth club for young people aged between 9-15 years old that has a vision impairment.

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Vika’s FUN-tastic Friday - Autumn Sessions - New College Worcester

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Welcome to Vika’s FUN-tastic Friday! An online youth club for young people aged between 9-15 years old that has a vision impairment.

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Mindfulness activities for children with a visual impairment

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The experts in our Children and Young People’s team have put together eight mindfulness activities for your child to try.

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Top Access Tips: Measuring with a Ruler – Paths to Literacy

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Paths to Literacy Top Access Tips: Measuring with a Ruler. For teachers, families, and others interested in literacy for children and youth with visual impairments

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Whether you are a parent, teacher or carer of a child with vision impairment this play guide aims to get you started creating fun-filled playtimes for your child to develop and explore their senses.

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Getting Around with Tech – Navigation Apps - Thomas Pocklington Trust

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Explore navigation apps that can empower you to be more independent with getting around during your college or university studies as a blind or partially sighted student.